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Japan Aligns With NATO to Support Ukraine With Defensive Equipment via PURL

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Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko
Dariia Mykhailenko
News Writer
The Japanese flag at the National Diet building in Tokyo, Japan, on Monday, Sept. 8, 2025. (Photo: Getty Images)
The Japanese flag at the National Diet building in Tokyo, Japan, on Monday, Sept. 8, 2025. (Photo: Getty Images)

Japan is set to join a NATO-led mechanism that coordinates the purchase and delivery of US-made munitions and equipment to Ukraine, PURL, according to information obtained by NHK on February 10.

NATO officials told NHK that Japan is expected to formally announce its participation in the near future. Under the plan, Japan would provide financial contributions limited to non-lethal defense equipment. Possible items include radar systems, bulletproof vests, and other protective gear, the officials said.

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Japan has already briefed multiple NATO member states and Ukrainian officials on its intentions, according to the sources.

According to the outlet, one NATO official emphasized that even non-lethal support remains critical for Ukraine, describing Japan’s decision to take part as a “significant development” for the initiative.

Japan’s planned participation in PURL would build on its broader support for Ukraine.

According to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine , the Japanese government has approved a $6 billion package of humanitarian and technical assistance for Ukraine in 2026.

Ukraine’s Deputy Speaker Olena Kondratiuk welcomed the decision and thanked Masashi Nakagome for Japan’s sustained support, noting the scale of humanitarian aid provided amid Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.

The Verkhovna Rada said Japan has already delivered more than 2,500 power generators of various capacities, over 65 transformers, 10 power-generation units, and other essential equipment to help stabilize and restore Ukraine’s energy infrastructure following repeated Russian attacks.

Earlier, Japan provided about $52.8 million in grant funding to Ukraine under the newly launched fourth phase of its Emergency Recovery Program.

The funding will be used to address urgent needs, including mine clearance, repairs to damaged energy infrastructure, and the rehabilitation of water supply systems.

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The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine is Ukraine’s national parliament and its highest legislative authority. It is a unicameral body made up of 450 deputies (members of parliament), elected by Ukrainian citizens. The Verkhovna Rada is responsible for passing laws, approving the state budget, ratifying international treaties, overseeing the government, and appointing or dismissing key officials, including the prime minister and ministers.

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